Log Off, Tune In: Raising Emotionally Ready Kids Before Reception

Emotional literacy is a bigger predictor of school success than knowing letters or numbers – and it starts long before the classroom.

When we talk about school readiness, we often focus on academic basics – counting to 10, recognising letters, writing their name

But the quiet superpower that often gets overlooked?
Emotional regulation.

A child’s ability to recognise, manage and express their feelings is a stronger predictor of school success than early reading skills.

And in today’s digital world – where swiping is easier than sitting with discomfort – building that inner resilience matters more than ever.

What Is Emotional Regulation – And Why Does It Matter?

Emotional regulation is a child’s ability to:

Understand and name their feelings
Manage big emotions like frustration, fear or excitement
Recover from upsets without hitting or hiding
Wait, share and take turns
Ask for help when overwhelmed

These are the skills that allow children to thrive in group settings, solve problems, and form secure relationships with peers and teachers.

Without them, even the brightest child can struggle in the classroom.

How Screens Are Short-Circuiting Emotional Growth

We live in a world of instant gratification. When children get bored, frustrated, or upset, it’s tempting to hand over a device. And sometimes, that’s okay.

But when screens become a child’s primary coping tool, they don’t get to practise the skills they’ll need in real life:

Sitting with boredom and using imagination to fill the space
Waiting patiently while others talk or take turns
Learning how to calm down with breathing, movement, or words

Digital devices soothe the symptom, not the system.

And if we’re not careful, we raise children who can swipe through apps but struggle to sit with themselves.

6 Ways to Build Emotional Resilience Before School Starts

Whether you’re a parent, teacher or nursery practitioner, you can help children build the emotional toolkit they’ll carry into Reception – and beyond.

1. Name the Feeling

Start with emotional literacy.
Help children put words to what they’re experiencing:

“You’re really cross because the game stopped.”
“That’s a sad face – did something feel unfair?”

This helps reduce overwhelm and builds self-awareness.

2. Use Storybooks as Emotional Mirrors

Children relate to characters. Use books where characters feel frustrated, worried, jealous, left out – and talk about it.

Ask:

“Have you ever felt like that?”
“What would you do if that happened to you?”

Stories open doors to deep emotional conversations.

3. Practise Calming Strategies When Calm

Teach children what helps them feel better – not just in the moment, but before the meltdown.

Try:

Bubble breaths (inhale like smelling a flower, exhale like blowing a bubble)
Squeezing fists then releasing
A calm-down box with soft textures, stress balls or a favourite story

Rehearse these tools when they’re feeling good – not in the middle of a meltdown.

4. Let Them Feel It – Don’t Rush to Fix It

When children are upset, it’s tempting to distract or fix it quickly – often with a screen.

But sitting with them through it builds tolerance and connection:

“It’s okay to be upset. I’m here with you. Take your time.”

They learn that feelings pass – and they’re not alone.

5. Keep Screen Time Calm and Conscious

Avoid fast-paced, hyperactive content before school or bed
Don’t use screens as the default soother
Co-watch when possible, and talk about what they’re seeing

Tech can be part of a balanced life – but not the crutch for every emotional wobble.

6. Model What You Want to See

Children copy how we deal with stress.
If we name our feelings (“I’m a bit tired today – I need a walk”) and use healthy strategies, they will too.

We don’t need to be perfect. We just need to be real.

For Parents: Regulate First, Then Educate

You don’t need to rush into phonics and flashcards.
If your child knows how to:

Wait a few minutes for a turn
Ask for help when they’re stuck
Say “I’m sad” or “I need a cuddle”
— they are well on their way to being school-ready.

Children can’t learn when they’re dysregulated.

Emotional readiness is the real first lesson.

For Nurseries and Professionals: Prioritise Feelings, Not Just Funding

In early years settings, there’s often pressure to track learning outcomes. But emotional wellbeing must remain the priority.

Give children:

Time to talk about feelings
Tools to manage stress (e.g., sensory corners, calm boxes)
Trusted adults who co-regulate with them

The most powerful ‘intervention’ is always connection.

Let’s Raise Children Who Can Sit With Sadness and Celebrate Joy

Children entering school today face a fast-paced world.
We can’t protect them from every wobble — but we can equip them to handle life’s ups and downs with confidence and calm.

So let’s put emotional resilience at the centre of school readiness.
Because a child who can manage their emotions is a child who is ready to learn.

🎒 Want to Nurture Emotionally Resilient Children in a Screen-Saturated World?

The Navigating the Digital Jungle School Readiness Toolkit is filled with printable resources and play-based activities to help children:

✅ Build emotional intelligence
✅ Learn calming strategies
✅ Navigate tech mindfully

Whether you’re a parent, nursery, or early years professional, this toolkit gives you screen-savvy support with real-life emotional growth.

👉 Get it here and start the journey today